About the Open Call

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art at Bedford invites artists to submit work for its Biennial exhibition, running from July 24, 2026 to October 18, 2026. The exhibition features selections by Juror Fred Danziger and awards judged by Nicole Maye Luga, with cash prizes including $1,000 for Best in Show. A non-refundable application fee of $25 is required. The awards reception is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026. Submissions must include JPEG images of up to 3 artworks from the past 2-3 years, not previously exhibited in local juried shows, and must fit specific size constraints. Artists can apply by mail or online. For questions, contact (814) 515-1370 or submissions@sama-art.org.

What is Offered

Cash awards: $1,000 Best in Show, $500 First Place, $250 Second Place, $100 Third Place, $300 People’s Choice.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a $25 non-refundable application fee. The application requires a completed form and JPEG images of a maximum of 3 artworks. Images should be 300 dpi resolution or higher; one JPEG per submission unless the work is in the round. Works must fit through a door 78” h x 32” w. Submitted work should be from the past 2-3 years and not have been exhibited at previous juried exhibitions in the area. An artistic statement regarding conceptual insight is optional.

How to Apply

Artists can apply either by mail or online. To apply by mail, send a $25 check payable to Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, along with the completed application form and a CD or USB drive of 3 JPEG images, to SAMA Bedford at 137 E. Pitt St. Bedford, PA 15522. For online application, submit payment via the 'Pay Now' button, then email materials to submissions@sama-art.org with the subject '2026 Biennial Application'. The email must include the completed application form, 3 JPEG images of work, and artist details including name, address, phone, email, titles, creation dates, insurance values, media types, dimensions, and an optional artistic statement.